Our goal is to educate our customers about the amazing world of Sauna bathing and provide you all the information to purchase with confidence. To do that, we complied this Frequently Asked Questions, however, If you still have questions, please contact us at support@glowcabin.com we will be delighted to hear from you and help answer your questions.
1. Where do Saunas come from?
Saunas originate from Finland, with evidence suggesting their use dating back as far as 7,000 BC. The word "sauna" itself is of Finnish origin, highlighting the deep cultural roots of this practice in Finland. While the earliest forms were simple pits dug into the ground and heated with stones, the tradition evolved over time, with different cultures adapting the concept to their own needs and preferences.
Sauna culture in Finland is an integral part of the lives of the majority of the Finnish population and involves much more than simply washing oneself. In a sauna, people cleanse their bodies and minds and embrace a sense of inner peace. Traditionally, the sauna has been considered as a sacred space – a ‘church of nature’. Saunas come in many forms – electric, wood-heated, smoke and infra-red With no hierarchy among them.
2. What are the types of Saunas?
Saunas can be classified according to their characteristics:.
- By their intended locations, Saunas can be classified as Indoor or Outdoor.
- By their heating mechanism, Saunas can be classified as Traditional, Infrared, or Hybrid.
3. What are Traditional Saunas?
A traditional sauna is a heated room, often made of wood, where the air is heated by a stove or heater, typically using heated rocks. The heat warms the body through the surrounding air, and users can create steam by adding water to the hot rocks. Traditional saunas are known for their high temperatures and the feeling of dry heat, which can be intensified by adding steam. Traditional saunas, particularly those of northern Europe, are associated with relaxation, social gatherings, and cultural traditions.
4. What are Infrared Saunas?
Infrared saunas are a type of sauna that uses infrared heating elements to directly heat the body with infrared light, rather than heating the air around you like traditional saunas, which allows to produce a deep sweat.
5. What is the difference between Traditional Saunas and Infrared Saunas?
Traditional saunas heat the air, while infrared saunas use infrared light to heat the body directly
6. What is Infrared light?
Infrared is the band of light we perceive as heat. We cannot see this band of light with the
naked eye, but we can feel this type of light in the form of heat. Learn more about the different Infrared light waves
7. What is the Electro Magnetic Field (EMF) on Infrared Saunas?
An Electromagnetic Field (EMF) is a physical field produced by electrically charged objects. It is one of the fundamental forces of nature. Learn here about the different levels of EMF in our saunas.
8. How will my sauna ship?
Please see our simple delivery process here.
9. How long will it take to assemble my sauna?
Assembly for our 2 Person Saunas takes only an hour and for larger saunas up to three hours.
10. What type of electric power do Saunas need?
One and two persons Saunas plug into a standard 15 amp/ 120-volt
The 3-person or more saunas require a dedicated 20 amp / 120-volt electrical circuit, and a 20-amp wall outlet in order to be plugged in. (Please do not use extension cords, power bridges, or GFCI outlets.) For details on each
See here the 15 and 20 amp outlet and breaker requirements.
The Traditional Saunas using a stove will require 240VAC /1PHASE (30/40AMP, depending on your electrical code) dedicated circuit for the stove. The stove must be installed by a certified electrician per the manufacturer’s manual. The stove must be installed per the electrical code in your area with reference to the breaker and wire sizes.
11. How do I maintain my Sauna?
Infrared: See how to best maintain your Infrared Sauna here
Traditional: See how to best maintain your Traditional Sauna here
12. What is the best temperature to run my sauna and how long should my sauna session be?
When first starting your sauna session keep your temperature lower. 118 degrees to 122 degrees is the optimal temperature for Sauna benefits. You should start with 15-minute increments and work up to 30 minutes. You should never use a sauna for more than 60 minutes. Once you begin to sweat, you will find that you sweat more profusely when you wipe it away with a towel. If you feel faint, lightheaded, dizzy, listen to your body, and get out of the sauna you are likely dehydrated.
13. What precautions do I need to use a Sauna?
If you have a medical/health condition, are taking prescription drugs, or have
acute joint injuries, please consult with your medical professional before using the sauna. If you have questions about if you should use a Sauna please consult your Doctor or medical professional before using it.
If you have any health conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease, get cleared by your doctor before your first session. Even though saunas are fairly safe, you don’t want to take any chances when it comes to your health and safety.
If you are pregnant, think could be pregnant, or breastfeeding consult a medical professional before using a Sauna.
Things to know before your first session:
- Avoid using a sauna if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
- If you feel ill or have a fever, wait to use the sauna until you’re feeling better.
- Using a sauna will cause you to sweat a lot, so you may feel lightheaded. If this happens, make sure to get up slowly, sit down once leaving the sauna, and hydrate.
- Drink water immediately after finishing your session, and wait for your body to cool down before doing anything else.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your sauna session to support your body's detoxification efforts.
- Start slowly: Begin with shorter sessions and gradually increase the duration as your body adjusts.
- Combine with healthy habits: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, manage stress, and practice mindful living.
Note that it is possible to experience overheating or dehydration when using a sauna. It’s important to hydrate to replenish lost fluids and allow plenty of time to cool down.
If after using any sauna you experience a headache, a fever of 104°F (40°C) or higher, confusion, or a racing heart, seek medical attention, as you may be experiencing a heatstroke.
14. Are there potential side effects?
Some users may experience dizziness, dehydration, or mild discomfort during or after sauna use. Ensuring proper hydration and monitoring temperature and session length can mitigate these effects